What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
HeliBoard is the best starting point for Android users who want keyboard traffic to stay offline. Its F-Droid listing says the app does not use Android’s internet permission and works fully offline. That is a concrete property of the listed build, not an independent security audit. FlorisBoard is the better fit if extensive customization and an explicit local-data policy matter more than release maturity. AnySoftKeyboard is the most interesting option for people who need downloadable language packages and broad customization, but its available evidence does not establish the same no-network guarantee.
A keyboard is a privileged input method: while it is active, it can access text in the field you are editing. The right choice therefore depends on which data access you accept, which languages and layouts you need, and whether you value an offline claim, a local-processing policy, or feature breadth.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick verdict: which private Android keyboard should you choose?
| App | Network and privacy evidence | Languages and features | Maturity and Android requirement | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HeliBoard | F-Droid says it does not request Android’s internet permission and works fully offline. This is a listing claim, not a third-party audit. See the HeliBoard F-Droid listing. | Dictionaries, spell-check suggestions, multiple languages, clipboard history, one-handed and split layouts, and themes. Glide typing requires a separate closed-source library that is not bundled. | F-Droid lists version 4.1, added August 31, 2026, for Android 5.0 and newer. | Best when preventing network transmission is the first priority. |
| FlorisBoard | Its policy says accessed or stored personal data is kept locally and never shared. The policy also explains temporary access to focused text, clipboard contents, and the user dictionary for relevant features. See the FlorisBoard privacy policy. | Many Latin layouts, themes, emoji, and compact or one-handed modes. F-Droid reports limited Arabic, Persian, and Hebrew support. | F-Droid marks it beta and lists Android 8.0 and newer. Check the current listing before installing. | Best for customization and a clearly documented local-data approach when beta status is acceptable. |
| AnySoftKeyboard | F-Droid describes it as open source with an emphasis on privacy, but that listing does not establish a no-network guarantee. Review the exact build’s permissions and documentation. | Separate language packages, dictionaries, learning-based next-word prediction, experimental gesture typing, themes, and voice input. The listing includes contacts permission. | F-Droid lists version 1.13.8175, added March 11, 2026, for Android 6.0 and newer. | Best for language-package flexibility and customization, subject to a careful permission review. |
These are different kinds of evidence. “Open source,” “privacy-focused,” and “offline” are not interchangeable guarantees. HeliBoard has the clearest network-permission statement; FlorisBoard has the most explicit first-party explanation of local handling; AnySoftKeyboard offers a broad feature and language ecosystem without the same documented no-network promise.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Why keyboard privacy is a special concern
Android gives the active input method access to text in the focused field so it can provide suggestions, corrections, and other keyboard functions. That can include messages, search queries, addresses, usernames, and other sensitive text. FlorisBoard’s policy describes monitoring a small window around the cursor in memory, and explains that the keyboard can access clipboard content and read the user dictionary when those functions are enabled.
#1 Best Overall
- Full 3-System Compatibility & Wide Device Support: Perfectly compatible with Android, iOS and Windows three major systems. Works seamlessly with Samsung tablets, iPads, iPhones, laptops, smartphone, android, iOS, windows etc
- How to Switch Systems: Switching to the corresponding system will improve compatibility and higher work efficiency (“FN + A” is for iOs , “FN + S” is for Windows, “FN + D” is for Android )
- Enhanced Oversized Keycaps：27% bigger than standard keycaps. The spacious surface minimizes accidental presses and ensures comfortable typing for long hours
- 5 Adjustable Angles & Foldable Stand for tablet or phone, It effectively eases hand and eye fatigue during long hours of use, helping you stay focused and work more efficiently
- Long Battery Life & Smart Power Saving：Built‑in rechargeable lithium battery, Type‑C fast charging (full charge in 2–3 hours, last up to 200 hours with the backlight off, and 3-5 hours with the backlight on). Auto sleep mode after inactivity to save power, no frequent charging needed
Access does not automatically mean that text is uploaded. It does mean you should evaluate both the app’s network permissions and the features that retain or process data. Predictions, personalized dictionaries, clipboard history, glide typing, and voice input can all require additional access or local storage. A practical privacy decision asks two separate questions:
- Can this installed build communicate over the network? Android permissions and the app’s implementation are relevant here.
- What does the app do with text locally? Suggestions, learned words, clipboard entries, and temporary cursor context may remain on the device even when no network is available.
Source availability helps people inspect code, but it is not proof that a particular binary has been independently audited. Install the exact version you intend to use, check its permissions, and treat project policies as statements of intent rather than security certification.
HeliBoard: the offline-first choice
HeliBoard is the strongest match for the question, “Which Android keyboard doesn’t send what I type over the internet?” Its F-Droid listing says it does not use Android’s internet permission and works fully offline. That supports a precise conclusion: the listed build is designed without that Android permission. It does not prove that every release, fork, download source, or device configuration has identical behavior, and it does not remove the general risks of running an input method.
What HeliBoard includes
- Dictionaries and spell-check suggestions.
- Support for multiple languages.
- Clipboard history.
- One-handed and split keyboard layouts.
- Theme controls.
F-Droid lists version 4.1 as added on August 31, 2026, with Android 5.0 as the minimum. Version numbers and dates are listing metadata, so verify that the build you download matches the source you trust.
The glide-typing trade-off
HeliBoard’s F-Droid description says glide typing works only with a closed-source library that is not included in the app. If swipe typing is essential, you must weigh that dependency against the app’s offline design. If you do not need glide typing, the limitation may be irrelevant; if you do, investigate the library’s provenance and permissions separately rather than assuming the core app’s offline statement covers it.
Who should pick HeliBoard?
Choose HeliBoard when the primary requirement is minimizing the chance of keyboard traffic leaving the device, and you can live without a bundled swipe-typing engine. It is also a sensible starting point for users who prefer a lower Android minimum version and standard keyboard conveniences such as themes, split layouts, and clipboard history.
Rank #2
- Cable-Free: Bluetooth Connection with your mobile devices such as tablets and mobile phones. Bring you more convenience when you need to type. Operating distance up to 10 meters. This keyboard is bluetooth enabled and it doesn't come with a USB dongle. It also supports Bluetooth-enabled PCs or Laptops. Arteck Ultra-Slim Bluetooth Keyboard Compatible with iPad 10.2-inch / iPad Air / iPad 9.7-inch / iPad Pro / iPad Mini, iPhone and other Bluetooth Enabled Devices Including iOS, Android, Windows, Black
- Broad Compatibility: Use with all four major operating systems supporting Bluetooth (iOS, Android, Mac OS and Windows), including iPad 10.2-inch / Air / iPad Pro / iPad 9.7-inch / iPad Mini / iPhone / Android Tablets like Samsung Galaxy Tab, Google Nexus / Windows, etc.
- Convenient Layout: QWERTY layout with hot keys customized for all iPads, including volume, music control, brightness, etc.
- Long Battery Life: Energy-saving design and automatic sleep mode allow up to 4 months between battery changes. (based on 2 hours' non-stop use per day) (2 X AAA batteries included)
- Package contents: Arteck HB098 Bluetooth Keyboard, 2 X AAA batteries, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
FlorisBoard: strong customization with an explicit local-data policy
FlorisBoard takes a different route. Its official policy says: “Any personal data that is accessed or stored is exclusively kept locally either in-memory or in the private app data directory and is never shared with anyone.” The policy was last modified March 2, 2026. This is the FlorisBoard project’s own statement, not independent verification of every build.
What the policy actually covers
The policy explains why an input method can see sensitive content. FlorisBoard may temporarily access the text around the cursor to provide keyboard functions, read clipboard contents for clipboard features, and read the user dictionary for relevant suggestions. It says persistent personal data remains local, while spelling, suggestions, glide typing, and clipboard history can store data locally when you enable those functions.
That distinction matters: “local” does not mean “no data access.” You are still granting the keyboard access needed to operate, and enabling more features can increase the amount of text retained on the device. Disable features you do not use, especially clipboard history or personalized learning, if minimizing local retention is more important than convenience.
Layouts and customization
FlorisBoard offers many Latin layouts, themes, emoji support, and compact or one-handed modes. F-Droid reports only limited support for Arabic, Persian, and Hebrew. If you type primarily in those scripts, inspect the current layout list before switching; extensive Latin coverage should not be read as broad multilingual coverage.
Beta status and Android requirement
F-Droid marks FlorisBoard as beta and lists Android 8.0 or newer. Beta labeling can indicate that behavior, compatibility, or feature completeness may change between releases. Users who need a conservative, established deployment should account for that status; users who value customization may accept it in exchange for the project’s detailed policy and design flexibility.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Who should pick FlorisBoard?
FlorisBoard is the best fit for someone asking, “Is there a private alternative to Gboard?” who wants a highly configurable keyboard and a plainly written local-data policy, and who accepts beta software and the documented script limitations.
Rank #3
- 3 Devices Switch with A Single Clicking: This keyboard is able to connect to 3 devices at the same time. You can switch between 3 devices with a single key clicking.
- Ergonomic design: Stainless steel material gives heavy duty feeling, low-profile keys, full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts offer quiet and comfortable typing.
- Broad Compatibility: Use with all four major operating systems supporting Bluetooth (iOS, Android, Mac OS and Windows), including Computer, Desktop, PC, Laptop / iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, iPad Min, iPhone, Smartphone / Android Tablets like Samsung Galaxy, Surface etc.
- 6-Month Battery Life: Rechargeable lithium battery with an industry-high capacity lasts for 6 months with single charge (based on 2 hours non-stop use per day).
- Package contents: Arteck Stainless Bluetooth Keyboard, USB charging cable, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
AnySoftKeyboard: language packages and broad features
AnySoftKeyboard is an open-source keyboard with an emphasis on privacy according to its F-Droid listing, but the evidence available here does not establish that it has no network access. Do not infer an offline guarantee from the open-source label alone. Check the installed release’s permissions and current privacy documentation before entering highly sensitive text.
Language and prediction model
The project uses separate language packages and dictionaries, which can be useful if you switch among languages or want to keep a language pack independent from the base app. Its listed features include learning-based next-word prediction, experimental gesture typing, themes, and voice input. Learning and voice functions can involve additional data access or local storage, so enable only the capabilities you understand and need.
Permission review
F-Droid’s listing includes contacts permission. A contacts permission can support contact-aware features, but the listing alone does not establish exactly how a given release uses it. If contact access is unnecessary for your workflow, deny it where Android allows and confirm that the features you care about still work.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsVersion and compatibility
F-Droid lists AnySoftKeyboard version 1.13.8175 as added March 11, 2026, requiring Android 6.0 or newer. Treat that as metadata for the listed package, not a promise about every distribution channel. Check the current release notes and permission screen at installation time.
Who should pick AnySoftKeyboard?
Consider it when language-package support, dictionaries, and customization outweigh the need for a documented no-network guarantee. It is a candidate for multilingual users, but privacy-sensitive users should make the permission check part of setup rather than assuming the app’s open-source status settles the question.
How to choose among the three
Choose by network requirement
- Strictest offline requirement: Start with HeliBoard and verify the installed package has no Android internet permission.
- Local-data policy with customization: Choose FlorisBoard if its beta status and language coverage fit your device.
- Language packages and feature breadth: Evaluate AnySoftKeyboard, then inspect permissions and disable unneeded features.
Choose by language and layout
Do not select a keyboard solely from its privacy label if it cannot provide your scripts. HeliBoard lists multiple-language support, FlorisBoard’s strongest coverage is Latin with limited Arabic, Persian, and Hebrew support, and AnySoftKeyboard’s package model is designed for adding languages. Confirm the exact layouts for your languages before replacing your current keyboard.
Rank #4
- Type on Any Device: A new type of wireless computer keyboard for your desk that also works with your tablet and smartphone; connect with any Bluetooth-enabled device with external keyboard support. Wireless range: > 10m wireless range
- Easy-Switch Dial: Simply turn the dial of the Logitech K480 keyboard to switch typing between 3 connected Bluetooth wireless devices, you can work with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, Android, and iPadOS
- Familiar Keyboard Layout: Find all the shortcut keys you use the most, but in a space-saving design that lets you place your mouse close to you, for less arm reaching and better posture
- Integrated Cradle: A cradle to hold your phone or tablet at just the right angle for you to read while you type; fits most phones and tablets up to 0.4 inches thick and 10 inches wide
- Reliable Power: This portable, wireless Bluetooth keyboard comes with 2 pre-installed AAA batteries which can last up to 24 months (2) and is compatible with wired, wireless or Bluetooth mice. Battery indicator light
Choose by typing features
HeliBoard includes spell-check, dictionaries, themes, clipboard history, and split or one-handed layouts, but bundled glide typing is not available. FlorisBoard emphasizes layout and theme customization and documents local handling for suggestions and glide typing. AnySoftKeyboard lists learning-based predictions, experimental gestures, and voice input. More features generally mean more data access or storage decisions; privacy is improved by turning off anything you do not need.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Choose by project status
HeliBoard’s listed Android 5.0 minimum may suit older devices. AnySoftKeyboard lists Android 6.0 and newer. FlorisBoard lists Android 8.0 and newer and is marked beta. These compatibility and status labels can change, so use them as an installation check rather than a permanent ranking.
Installation and privacy-hardening checklist
The exact labels differ by Android version and manufacturer, but the following process keeps the decision auditable.
- Record your current keyboard settings. Note languages, layout, autocorrection, learned words, and clipboard behavior so you can reproduce what you need without enabling every new feature.
- Use the project’s identified distribution source. For the listings discussed here, open HeliBoard at F-Droid, FlorisBoard at F-Droid, or AnySoftKeyboard at F-Droid. Check the package name, version, update date, and signing information shown by the store.
- Inspect permissions before enabling the keyboard. In Android, open Settings, then Apps, select the keyboard, and open Permissions. On some devices the path is Settings, Privacy, Permission manager. Deny permissions that are not required for the features you intend to use.
- Enable it as an input method. Go to Settings, System, Languages and input, On-screen keyboard, or the equivalent menu supplied by your device maker. Enable the new keyboard and select it as the default only after reviewing the warning Android displays for input methods.
- Start with a minimal feature set. Enable only required languages and layouts. Leave clipboard history, personalized learning, glide typing, voice input, and contact-aware features off until you understand their data behavior.
- Check the keyboard’s own privacy or advanced settings. Look for options related to learning from typed text, dictionary synchronization, clipboard retention, analytics, voice services, and crash reporting. Keep local-only options on and remote or unnecessary services off where the app provides those controls.
- Test ordinary functions with non-sensitive text. Confirm that switching languages, suggestions, punctuation, and layouts work before using the keyboard for passwords, financial details, or confidential messages. A test does not prove security; it only catches obvious compatibility problems.
- Recheck after updates. Permissions, feature defaults, and network behavior can change. Compare the new version and its store listing with the version you previously approved.
What “offline” does and does not prove
When F-Droid says HeliBoard does not use Android’s internet permission, that is useful evidence about the listed package. It narrows one route for ordinary network communication. It does not establish that every privacy or security risk disappears: the keyboard still sees focused text while active, other installed components may have network access, and a closed-source glide-typing library is a separate dependency.
Likewise, FlorisBoard’s local-storage statement is a policy commitment describing how the project says it handles personal data. It is not an independent audit, penetration test, or guarantee that every third-party build is identical. AnySoftKeyboard’s open-source designation makes code inspection possible, but the available listing does not establish a no-network guarantee.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
For any of the three, separate the following questions:
Best Value
- 【Folding Bluetooth Keyboard & Phone Stand Holder】Extremely thin design of the portable folding keyboard allows you to fold it up and put it in your pocket or bag without taking up too much space. The phone stand holder, best companion for folding keyboard, gives you perfect screen angle. Near-standard size design provides accurate, fast typing, just like the desktop keyboard you are used to. Quiet keys allow you to focus on your work. Perfect gift for travel and business trips!
- 【Sensitive Touchpad Foldable Keyboard】Upgrade sensitive touchpad supports multi-touch, so you can control the device without using mouse. More convenient and efficient! (NOTE: IOS 13.4 and below or Android 3.0 and below are not supported!!!) Built-in rechargeable battery can last for 48 hours or 560 hours after 2-3 hours of charging. One full charge last enough for your short business trip or vacation!
- 【Exquisite & Lightweight Portable Keyboard】Dark Black matte exterior, made of ABS+PC material, lightweight but sturdy, without fear of daily wear and scratches. The elegant matte design, excellent touch and clean look make it a perfect match for your tablet, phone and laptop. Only 5.53-ounce, palm-sized keyboard can be folded up and carried around. Provide you with maximum convenience with minimal weight and size. It must be a good choice for editors!
- 【Stable Connection & Wide Compatibility】Samsers Bluetooth keyboard supports seamless connectivity to all your Bluetooth devices (iOS, Android and Windows). Maintain a stable connection and provide fast response to the device within 10 m. Simply turn on the keyboard and automatically connect to the last connected device. With a Samsers keyboard, you can record all your ideas at any time! (NOTE: this bluetooth keyboard is not compatible with various computer sticks)
- Does the package request network permission?
- Does an optional feature invoke a separate service or library?
- What text is held temporarily in memory?
- What data is retained locally, such as learned words or clipboard history?
- Can you disable the feature or deny the permission without losing basic typing?
Common pitfalls and fixes
Assuming open source means offline
Open code can improve transparency, but it does not itself prove that a release has no network capability. Use the permission screen and the project’s current documentation.
Enabling every convenience feature immediately
Predictions, learning, clipboard history, gestures, and voice input can expand what the keyboard accesses or stores. Begin with a plain layout and add features one at a time so you can make an informed trade-off.
Confusing local storage with zero exposure
A keyboard may keep data only on the device and still access text in memory while you type. Local retention is generally a different risk from remote transmission; decide which risk you are trying to reduce.
Ignoring language limitations
FlorisBoard’s limited Arabic, Persian, and Hebrew support is a documented constraint. If your language is affected, test the needed layout before migrating. AnySoftKeyboard’s package approach or HeliBoard’s listed multiple-language support may be a better fit, but verify the exact dictionary and layout you require.
Forgetting the source and version
Package names and version metadata matter. A statement about one F-Droid build should not automatically be applied to a fork, repackaged APK, or later release. Keep a note of the source and version you installed.
What older keyboard-privacy research can tell you
The 2022 study “How Private Are Android Keyboards?” by Douglas Leith and Stephen Farrell examined network behavior and privacy-policy disclosures for versions available at that time. It described AnySoftKeyboard as open source with explicit commentary on permission use and found less clarity in the policies of some large proprietary keyboards. Treat those findings as dated evidence about the versions tested, not as a current audit or universal verdict for today’s releases.
For a current decision, the practical evidence is the exact package, version, permissions, enabled features, and the project’s present policy. That approach is more reliable than carrying an old study’s conclusion forward unchanged.
Quick Recap
Bottom line for the three privacy priorities
- Offline-first: HeliBoard, because the F-Droid listing explicitly says it does not use Android’s internet permission and works fully offline. Accept the external-library caveat for glide typing.
- Customization plus a local-data policy: FlorisBoard, provided Android 8.0 compatibility, beta status, and its limited non-Latin support are acceptable.
- Multilingual packages and feature breadth: AnySoftKeyboard, after reviewing the current permissions—including the listed contacts permission—and disabling features that do not serve your needs.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
